Avoid Romanticizing

Avoid romanticizing the relationship. When a relationship ends, we tend to idealize it. But if you were in a toxic relationship, remind yourself of this reality. Steinorth suggested making a list of all the problems that plagued your past relationship along with how your ex made you feel. The next time you’re tempted to reach for your phone and call them, reach for your list instead. Remember that while the pain feels like a fresh wound today, it will heal over time. Focusing on your needs, feeling your feelings and learning from your past relationship can help your new skin become even stronger.

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Margarita Tartakovsky, MS, is an associate editor at Psych Central and authors the body image blog Weightless. She writes about everything from anxiety and ADHD to creativity and couples to mindfulness and stress. You can learn more about her work at her website.